Review the envelope before choosing finishes
Roof, facade, windows and external elements may matter more to comfort and cost than the selected stone. Record what stays, what needs investigation and what belongs in phase one. Separate essential works from design preferences so finishes do not conceal technical needs.
Coordinate interiors, services and plot
Climate equipment, ventilation, lighting and water take space and affect ceilings and furniture. Garden, pool and drainage need separate work packages. Agree the scope with the architect and technical specialists before pricing; document unknowns and resolve them after inspection.
What to request in a preliminary budget
Ask for surveys, design, essential building work, services, interiors and external works to be separated. Each package should identify known information and assumptions. Do not blend room renovation with roof, facade, garden and pool costs. Where structure or hidden systems remain unexamined, define how they will be investigated and how additional work will be approved instead of relying on a confident lump sum. This makes the estimate easier to compare and control as the project develops.